Computer Games Graphics

Computer Games Graphics

Pixel Art – 2D Sprites, 3D Isometric Sprites

Pixel art is a digital form of art that uses raster images to create characters, props and environments. A 2D sprite is a digital graphic that can be moved on screen. In gaming, the sprites will have lots of different stances to show the character doing something different such as running. Running will include a few different stances to show the character’s left foot going forward, and then the left. This is so that the character has movement in their actions which makes the game look more realistic and interesting.

Concept Art – Character, Weapons, Vehicle, Environment

Concept art is a form of illustration that shows of something or someone in a video game. Concept art usually starts with a few drafts of a character or model, and then more in depth 3D models of that character or prop. This can show the development of a character. The picture below shows the different stages of a character’s development. First there is the draft or idea, then it is coloured and shading may be added, then the character is turned into a 3D netting which can then be shaped and then finally coloured and detailed.

Texture Art

It is a texture artist’s job to create a lifelike texture for a 3D computer model so that the model is appropriate for the environment. They also do so for objects in video games so that the environment looks better. Most of the time, texture artists replicate real textures but in some games such as sci-fi, they may have to make their own textures. The more in depth and the more detail put into each creature or prop, the better because it adds variation the game instead of the player seeing the same textures over and over again.

Background Graphics – Walls Forests Clouds etc.

These are the graphics that cover the background that is on screen such as a forest or a building. These settings usually set certain themes or emotions for the player, due to the high detail put into the backgrounds. They are commonly used for ascetics and are not interact able. Here’s an example of a highly detailed background graphic. Some games recreate real places such as ‘Grand Theft Auto V’ recreated the pier in Los Angeles called the ‘Santa Monica Pier’.

In-Game Interface – Heads up Display, Health Points, Ammo

In-game interfaces show the player their current status. Usually bars for health, lifes left, level and ammo are in most games, but some games have different bars and numbers too such as stamina. These interfaces are commonly in the corners of the screen so that they aren’t in the way of the gameplay. Some games such as ‘League of Legends’ or ‘World of Warcraft’ has a huge interface covering most of the corners of the screen. Another really common interface is a map. Thousands of games use this because it makes sure the player knows where to go at all times. Here are some examples.